UK: King Charles seen in public for first time after hospitalization

King Charles III

was seen smiling and waving to the public in London on Friday, a day after being briefly hospitalised due to side effects from his

cancer treatment

.
The 76-year-old monarch was spotted leaving Clarence House in the back of a black Audi, reassuring well-wishers who had gathered outside.

His appearance came after

Buckingham Palace

confirmed on Thursday that Charles had experienced “temporary side effects” from his ongoing cancer treatment, requiring a short period of observation in hospital.

“Following scheduled and ongoing medical treatment for cancer this morning, the king experienced temporary side effects that required a short period of observation in hospital,” said the palace statement.
The king had returned home on Thursday afternoon and was reported to be in “good form,” continuing his state duties, including reviewing government papers and making calls, as per PA news agency.
However, his engagements for the rest of Thursday and Friday were postponed as a precaution, following medical advice. “His Majesty’s afternoon engagements were therefore postponed,” the palace added, with an apology to those affected by the cancellations.
As per AFP, Charles was due to receive credentials from ambassadors of three countries on Thursday and had planned a visit to Birmingham on Friday. Despite this setback, his scheduled trip to Italy in early April is still expected to go ahead.
Tourists who saw the king on Friday expressed relief at his recovery. “We were horrified when we heard the news yesterday,” said Julian Mati, a visitor. “To see him smiling and waving, it’s such a relief.”
Charles’ health has been under public scrutiny since he announced his cancer diagnosis in February 2024, a rare move for a British monarch. The palace has not disclosed the specific type of cancer but stated that his treatment would continue into 2025.
His illness comes at a challenging time for the royal family, with his daughter-in-law, Catherine, Princess of Wales, also undergoing cancer treatment. Kate announced in January that she was in remission after a period of treatment, according to AFP.
Charles, who ascended the throne in 2022 following the death of Queen Elizabeth II, has focused on making the monarchy more transparent and modern. The palace had previously stated that the king wished to be open about his cancer diagnosis to “prevent speculation and in the hope it may assist public understanding for all those around the world who are affected by cancer.”
Despite his health concerns, Charles has remained active in his royal duties. Since his diagnosis, he gradually resumed work, making several public appearances and even travelling abroad, including a visit to Australia and Samoa last year.
His reign has also been marked by tensions within the royal family, particularly with his younger son, Prince Harry. Harry, who stepped back from royal duties in 2020, has had limited interactions with his father in recent years.